Can multiple protests be submitted by different people representing the same real party in interest?

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Source: FAQ (MPEP-Based) BlueIron Update: 2024-09-30 10 Rules 5 Related FAQs This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice. While multiple protests can be submitted, they cannot be used to circumvent the requirements for subsequent protests by the same real party in interest. The MPEP 1901.01 clearly states: “The requirements of 37 CFR 1.291(c)(5) cannot be avoided by multiple protests submitted by different people representing the same real party in interest.” This means that if a real party in interest has already submitted a protest, any subsequent protests, even if submitted by different representatives, must comply with the additional requirements specified in 37 CFR 1.291(c)(5). This rule ensures that the protest process is not abused and that subsequent protests provide substantial new information. Related Rules from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure 10 rules Collapse Multiple Protests by Same Party Not Allowed MPEP 1901.01 Prohibited First Protest by Real Party In Interest Not Subject to Item E MPEP 1901 Protests Must Comply With Requirements MPEP 1901 Prohibited Real Party in Interest Not Required to Be Identified MPEP 1901.01 Protest Filing Requirements for Patent Applications MPEP 1901 Public Can Protest Pending Patents If Identified MPEP 1901 Permitted Service Requirements for PTAB Contested Cases MPEP 1901 Portion of Non-English Document Must Be Submitted with Translation MPEP 1901 Required Party Can Protest Pending Application and Call Attention to Prior Art MPEP 1901 Permitted First Protest Requirement MPEP 1901.01 Other Related FAQs 5 FAQs Collapse Can an attorney file a protest on behalf of an unnamed client? What happens if a protest doesn&#8217;t include the required statement? What statement must accompany a patent protest? Who can file a protest against a patent application? How can th...